When do the lights go out
 

Putting fluids back in my 79 for the first time. When I turn on the ignition key to run (starter not attached) the engine oil and coolant lights stay on. Should they turn off?

This isn't a build. Put it in the general discussion area...

They should turn off almost immediately.

OCDHerb you need a build thread!!! I've seen a dozen posts about this mystery car and how to put it together like OEM; but I've never seen it. It must look epic by now :D

Is this what you meant?
 

That's once the engine starts, right?

Since Herb said no starter, I assume the engine is (well) not started. Answering that situation, I turned the key to running position but did not start on my 83.

Initially all lights (except headlight raise) illuminate for bulb check, then after a couple seconds the seatbelt light turns off.
https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.rx7...0f6948579a.jpg


After that, the remaining lights stay illuminated, presumably, until the battery dies.


And, now I want to see some pictures also :)

In key on(run) position,all warning lamps across bottom of cluster illuminate. The L terminal in back of alternator shows ground when engine not running,alternator not charging(not turning). All warning lamps are provided 12 volts from common bus when ignition is on, this is a warning light check feature? Seat belt light is different as it has a timer that turns light off after timed out,don't recall at the moment the actual seconds of time this is. All cars essentially have same type circuitry. When engine started and alternator initiates charge, the L terminal no longer has ground thru alternator rotor and shows voltage so all warning lamps no longer have a ground to complete their circuit so they go off. Each will illuminate for their respective function if there is a problem with their particular system. Hope this answers the op question on normal warning light function.

Great response. You are correct. The car is not running, All of the lights stay on with the exception of the seatbelt light which turns off after about 5 seconds.

Thank you to everyone who responded. It's tough restoring a car when you have nothing to compare it to. I think there was a Star Trek episode based on this premise.

Regarding pictures. Nothing to really see yet. Interior is still out. No windshield, belt line trim, hatch glass or front bumper. Wheels are still painted blue. But since you insist....
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.rx7...9b139b41ea.jpg

https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.rx7...28851b9e56.jpg

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.rx7...cf2d7e1984.jpg

EEEE damn; good enough for me :D

Looks great. HTH. Now it's a build thread ;) !

I agree, you should consolidate all your questions and issues in one build thread. I'd bet more people would provide help and advice when they see pictures of your car and its progress. Not to mention, being easier for you to reference back to one thread instead of 100 individual ones. You need to bring ole Sparky back to the road!